59
Newborn Care
Activities
Discussion
Hands-on practice
This topic can serve as an introduction or simple overview of caring for a newborn and address common concerns. Parents may also wish to explore local options for a newborn or parenting class. If time allows, practice soothing, diapering and other baby care techniques.
Discussion Prompts
• What are the basic needs of a newborn?
• How do you get to know your newborn?
Resources
PFB book pages 64 – 65 PowerPoint slides 137-142
Newborn Review handout Soothing Your Baby poster Newborn Needs poster Newborn dolls / supplies
Key Points
• Feeding: breast, bottle or other methods if required, newborns should be fed on demand and 8 – 12 times in 24 hours.
• Hygiene: bathing, diapering, dressing, cord care, nail care and additional hygiene needs.
• Soothing: newborns have no ability to self-soothe, parents can comfort baby by:
• Breastfeeding.
• Swaddling.
• Massage, touch or burping.
• Singing, talking or shushing.
• Using white noise such as a vacuum.
• Motion( swaying, bouncing or rocking).
• Taking a walk or drive.
• Going outside.
• Shaken baby syndrome: never, ever shake or act violently toward a baby in any way. This can injure or kill a baby. If a caregiver is losing their temper, they need to put baby down gently in a safe place and get immediate help.
• Sleep patterns and safe sleep practices: no blankets, pillows, plush items, always put baby on back, keep space a comfortable temperature.
• Safety: avoid exposure to germs, practice frequent hand washing, properly clean feeding equipment, properly secure in car seat / stroller, attend regular well-child checkups.
• Warning signs that warrant attention from a health care provider:
• Temperature too high or low.
• Signs of illness: cold symptoms, wheezing, cough, breathing difficulties, vomiting / diarrhea.
• Signs of injury or infection( umbilical cord, penis): bleeding, pus, foul odor, fever.
• Feeding problems: lethargic, will not eat, signs of dehydration.
• Signs of jaundice( yellowing of skin and whites of eyes).
• Cannot be comforted by anything.
Preview
NEWBORN BASICS
© PLUMTREE BABY, LLC
59